2026 NBA Summer League: How to Watch and Schedule

How to Watch the 2026 NBA Summer League

Young stars such as A.J. Dybantsa, Cam Boozer and Caleb Wilson will take the court as the league stages 76 games over 11 days, from July 9 through July 19. The broadcast footprint splits between Prime Video and ESPN’s channels—ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU. The championship final is slated for July 19 on ESPN. Fans can follow the action through over‑the‑air TV or streaming services.

The summer showcase serves as a critical scouting platform, giving prospects a chance to impress teams before the regular season begins. It also offers entertainment for die‑hard fans eager to see emerging talent in live competition.

Where to Stream Without Cable

ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU games are available on major live‑TV platforms, including DirecTV, Fubo, and YouTube TV, as well as the ESPN app. Prime Video carries its own exclusive slate of matches, requiring a subscription to that service alone. This multi‑channel approach ensures fans can pick the option that fits their existing setup.

The convenience of streaming means viewers no longer need traditional cable to catch every moment of the tournament, expanding the league’s reach to a broader audience.

Full Tournament Schedule

All 30 NBA franchises will play four games between July 9 and July 16, building records that decide the four semifinalists. The remaining 26 teams drop into a consolation bracket, with play continuing through the final week.

Key match‑ups include:

• Washington Wizards vs. LA Clippers, 10:30 p.m. (ESPN) – Tuesday, July 14.

• Brooklyn Nets vs. Houston Rockets, 4:30 p.m. (ESPNU) and Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls, 6 p.m. (Prime Video) – Thursday, July 16.

• Game 1, 6:30 p.m. (Prime Video) and Game 3, 8:30 p.m. (Prime Video) – Friday, July 17.

• Game 7, 4:30 p.m. (Prime Video) and Game 11, 10:30 p.m. (Prime Video) – Saturday, July 18.

• Semifinal 1, 6:30 p.m. and Semifinal 2, 8:30 p.m. (Prime Video) – Saturday, July 18.

• Game 12, 4:30 p.m. (ESPN) and Game 13, 6:30 p.m. (ESPN2) – Sunday, July 19.

• Summer league championship game, 9 p.m. (ESPN) – Sunday, July 19.

The condensed schedule packs plenty of action into a two‑week window, giving fans a nonstop look at the next generation of NBA talent. With both marquee names and future stars on display, this summer league will shape conversations heading into the season.